In 2011, the Peace Corps celebrated 50 years of international service. More than 200,000 Americans have served as Peace Corps volunteers in 139 countries since President John F. Kennedy established the agency in 1961 to foster world peace and friendship, challenging Americans to serve their country by living and working in developing countries.
The Peace Corps’ mission has three simple goals:
- Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.
- Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.
- Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
Through their service, volunteers increase awareness of America around the world and help our country gain an understanding of other cultures beyond our borders. Currently, 8,655 Peace Corps volunteers serve in 77 countries – the largest number of volunteers in 40 years. Today’s Peace Corps is more vital than ever, working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development, and contributing to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves, their children, and their communities. You can learn more about the work of Peace Corps Volunteers here.
Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. Volunteers live and work with a community overseas to reach goals in education, health, business, agriculture, the environment, youth development and more. You can learn more about Peace Corps Service here.
The Peace Corps provides an opportunity for Americans of all ages to serve their country, learn more about the world, and empower communities to create a lasting and tangible positive impact.
Have questions about Peace Corps or life as a Volunteer? Ask them here.
Sources: About the Peace Corps, NextPCVSE – Image Source
i figure wherever i am, that's where the world is 